It’s a rare list of the most beautiful cities in Europe that doesn’t include Prague. One of its outstanding features is the number of vantage points from which to admire views of the city. For the best view of Prague, my favourite viewpoint is from the Great South Tower of St Vitus Cathedral.

St Vitus Cathedral, Prague Castle

St Vitus Cathedral has a magnificent presence in the third courtyard of Prague Castle, the world’s largest ancient castle.

The castle grounds are enormous, and a popular spot for visitors. Many areas, and events such as the changing of the guard, attract crowds.

Fortunately, the viewing tower isn’t one of them. The 287 steps, and the additional entrance fee, are likely contributors.

The Great South Tower, St Vitus Cathedral

The Great South Tower of St Vitus Cathedral towers almost 100 metres above Prague Castle.

Tackling the 287 steps to the viewing gallery at 52 metres was worth the effort. Stops were frequent while climbing the circular staircase, if only to admire the massive bells. Zikmund, the biggest of the bells in the bell tower, was cast in 1549. It’s so large that it needs six bell ringers to operate it – four to swing the bell into motion and two to manipulate the clapper.

Best view of Prague

Prague escaped the disastrous bombing and mass destruction that left many of the ancient cities of Europe in ruins during World War II. As a result, many historic castles, buildings, churches, and bridges have been retained and preserved.

1. City of hundred spires

Known as the ‘city of hundred spires,’ the assortment of towers, steeples, and spires rise above the rich collection of red-tiled roofs. The lighter shades of the facades of buildings offer a colourful contrast.

2. Prague bridges

There are over 300 bridges in the city, with 18 crossing the Vitava River. The most famous is Charles Bridge, completed in the early 15th century.

3. Rooster weathervanes

Red-tiled rooftops contribute to a striking background to the rooster weathervanes of St Vitus Cathedral. One legend of Saint Vitus is that he was thrown into a pot of boiling oil with a rooster and died of his injuries. As a result, St Vitus is often associated with a crowing rooster at dawn. Consequently, St Vitus became the patron saint against oversleeping.

The open beak and position of the rooster’s tongue suggest it’s crowing over the rooftops of Prague.

Conclusion

Can you manage the steps? If it’s a fine day, I highly recommend visiting the viewing deck of the St Vitus Cathedral tower. It was the highlights of my visit to Prague Castle.

Is Prague on your travel list? If so, you might be interested in Explore Prague’s Communist Past: Prague Communism and Nuclear Bunker Tour.

If you found this post useful, please share it by selecting one or more of the social media buttons. Have you visited Prague? If so, what is one of your favourite viewpoints for enjoying views of the city? Please share your thoughts in the comments. Thank you. 

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